The Austrian snowboard cross team has ran another path during their World Cup season preparation – the athletes used the so-called WATSU (water shiatsu) method combined with the pilot whale sound therapy.
The riders experienced several water sessions in the Aqua Dome Längenfeld as well as in the centre of the Doplhinspace team. The training consisted of a specific stabilization program as well as strength training and balance exercises together with practices to better the mental strength.
Although some athletes doubted this changed tack in the beginning, the whole squad was pretty impressed by the outcome in the end.
“First, I was skeptic as I thought that I would miss precious days in the snow. But now I know that I don't want to miss this experience. I'm pretty sure it helped the whole team and that everyone can benefit from it,” said 2009 World Champion Markus Schairer.
Head coach Tom Greil drew a similar line: “This course with its water therapy and mental training helped to release blockages, which occurred due to crashes and injuries in the recent past.”
The first snowboard cross event of the LG Snowboard FIS Word Cup season will take place in Telluride from Dec 14th - 17th.
